Taiwan Bitterling (Paratanakia himantegus)

Family: Cyprinidae

Taiwan Bitterling — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 6–8.8 cm; keep at 15–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
15–28 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
6–8.8 cm
Minimum tank
93 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Paratanakia himantegus of the family Cyprinidae is an aquarium-kept Cyprinidae. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins and omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter, it grows to 6–8.8 cm and prefers 15–28 °C water. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.

Native biotope

Habitat
Clear streams and rivers over gravel
Flow
Moderate, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates well-oxygenated water

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine gravel and sand
Hardscape
Water-worn stones and driftwood
Plants
Hardy rooted plants along the margins

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Egg-scatterer; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Taiwan Bitterling easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.

What temperature and water chemistry does Taiwan Bitterling need?

Set the heater to 15–28 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Taiwan Bitterling get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 6–8.8 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 93 litres.

What does Taiwan Bitterling eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Taiwan Bitterling live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Taiwan Bitterling come from?

Found in clear streams and rivers over gravel; expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Taiwan Bitterling jump?

Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.

How does Taiwan Bitterling breed?

Egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.